Hi Guys, I am brand new to the forum and I live in Canada.
I just picked up a "67 Bird Convertible" with a 400 built to Ram Air lV specs. There is less than 1000 miles on the rebuild and is not quite broken in yet. I need to change the oil and I am wondering what the best oil and filter are to use ( Brand, weight etc.).
I have heard 10W30, someone suggested a Marine 30, but I want to start off right with my new car. Car will never be winter driven and only started once a month or so through the winter. Car will be stored in my non-heated garage.
Thanks for your help, I am sure I will have lots more questions in the future.
Congrats! I am sure there are a lot of folks who will have answers to this. Can you give us a run down on the engine build? What type of pistons- any over bore Are the valves and guides new material or original? Any info helps.
Cant wait for summer... 68HO4004spvert Sleddog Iowa
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A lot depends on the type of camshaft follower the engine was built with. The zinc has been removed from today’s engine oil due to emissions requirements. Roller lifters don’t need the metal to metal sliding protection that flat tappets need. If motor is equipped with roller lifters then use modern oil. If flat tappet equipped, I would suggest ZDDP enhanced “hot rod” or racing oil. I’ve had good luck with Valvoline VR1. The high zinc Dino oil, not the synthetic version.
Simply ask the builder what the bearing clearances are and that will guide you as to what grade (5W-30, 10W-40, etc.) to choose. Keep in mind that also depending on what group (IV, V, etc.) oil you choose to run can also have varying characteristics. For example, a group V 5W-30 can be similar to a 10W-30 group II or IV oil.
Use a WIX filter and if you don't know your bearing clearances, I'd go with Redline 10W-30 during the summer. The 5W-30 for winter - presuming you change your oil every spring and fall.
Last edited by anguilla1980; 04/18/2112:22 AM.
http://www.TheFOAT.com/92GTA 1969 Pontiac Firebird w/535ci IAII aluminum block, Dailey dry sump, Holley EFI (full road race build). Primer black w/black interior. 1992 Pontiac Trans Am GTA w/SLP Performance Package. Dark Jade Grey Metallic, grey leather, T-Tops.
I ended up ordering VR1 10W- 30 with NAPA Gold 1258 filter (larger of the 2). I have not changed the oil yet. I have read that 5.7 litres (6 quarts) is the right quantity to use with filter change.
As far as the build, the guy I bought it from said he paid $6K to have it built to Ram Air lV specs .. O port heads, rolling lifters, and a Ram Air lV cam. He couldn’t give me more information than that. This is an original 400 car, but he told me the engine was replaced in the early 70’s with a 68 GTO 400.
I will post a picture or short video if I can figure out how to. Thanks